Kindness and Joy: Expressing the Gentle Love
by Harold G. Koenig, M.D.
I am always pleased to read the works of Dr. Koenig in his ‘little’ books that pack a big wallop. I say ‘little’ books, because they are small enough to tuck into a purse, or coat pocket… to be read anytime you have a few minutes to spend in peaceful meditation. The chapters are rich and enjoyable, but take only about 15 minutes to read. Then, that lovely message stays with you throughout the day. I never want to rush his books, but savor them like a blissful dessert.
‘Kindness and Joy’ is a much needed message in today’s angst-filled and stressed out world. When seemingly the farthest things from our minds are those 2 thoughts… ‘Kindness and Joy’. Too much of our time is being lost to revenge and sadness. How much better to contemplate a random act of kindness, & reaping the ensuing joy afterwards!
Dr. Koenig shares his Christian values throughout the book, bringing in scriptures that exhort us to act out of a good & loving heart. Not for what it will ‘get’ us, but for the sheer happiness it will bring to us as well as to others.
I love his words, “Kindness is a form of gentle love. When kind to others, we demonstrate the very best of what it means to be human.”
Indeed.
In the chapter ‘Practicing Kindness’, he lists ways for us to hone this skill of extending kindnesses to others. Beginning with 5 ways to ‘practice’.
1) Truly listening.
2) Look kind.
3) Feel kind.
4) Speak kindly.
5) Touch in a kind way.
This chapter goes on to explain ways in which we might show our gratitude and kindnesses to others.
“Kindness and Joy” is a great read and available online at:
www.templetonpress.org and other bookselling venues.
Happy Reading!
Rev Dr Sandra Gaskin